sporty swimsuit

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D

Sporty Suits
Color blocking and athletic details are a winning combination.

Forget solid tanks made for swimming laps: The hottest suits this season have sporty details—zippers, racing stripes, bold bursts of color—that are meant to be seen. "Color blocking really does work on every figure," says O creative director Adam Glassman.

Jennifer Harrison Newman, 41, Dancer

Body type: Athletic
Newman wants to look shapelier, yet sleek.

The solution: A tank that adds curves without bulk.

Red carter, $179, Macy's; 800-622-9748. Shoes, $198; theodoraandcallum.com.

6 more sporty swimsuits for every size and shape
retro swimsuit

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D

Retro
Flirty prints and feminine silhouettes—what's not to love?

"Choose the retro elements that flatter your shape," says Glassman. "Higher-cut bottoms elongate the legs, while well-placed ruffles can camouflage everything from a smaller bust to larger thighs." And remember: A good polka dot never hurt anyone.

Erin Hiatt, 38, Executive Assistant

Body type: Small bust
"I'm smallish in the boob area," says Hiatt. "I'd like to perk it up."

The Solution: A saucy one-piece in va-va-voom red.

ABS, $111, tjmaxx.com for stores. Shoes, Tommy Hilfiger, $79, tommy.com.

6 more retro swimsuits that look great now
tropical chic

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D

Tropical Chic
Florals, tie-dye, and tribal prints shine in eye-catching brights.

Island- and surf-inspired prints are riding a wave of popularity this season, especially in colors that pack a Hawaiian punch. "These pinks, purples, and fuchsias flatter almost every skin tone," says Glassman.

Emma Zaks, 29, Spin Instructor

Body Type: Big Bust
"I always feel like I'm falling out of my top," says Zaks.

The Solution: A suit with bra sizing ensures fit.

Panache top, $59, an bottom, $36; BareNecessities.com. Shoes, White House Black Market, $98; whbm.com

5 more tropical chic swimsuits
graphic swimsuit

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D

Graphic Prints
Suits get bold with stripes, chevrons, and all things geometric.

Solid colors may seem like a safer bet, but take a chance on these modern patterns. "Work graphic prints—especially in darker color combos—to your advantage," says Glassman. "Even horizontal lines can be flattering if worn the right way."

Lea-Lorien Alomar, 34, Songwriter

Body Type: Plus Size
Fit is key for Alomar, who recently lost 55 pounds. "The suit can't cause side spillage or muffin top," she says.

The Solution: A tank with a thigh-covering overlay she can tie up or down.

Magicsuit by Miraclesuit, $176; Macy's; 800-622-9748. Shoes, Stuart Weitzman, $385; 212-750-2555.

6 more graphic print swimsuits that flatter every figure
gray swimsuit

Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D

Gray
The stormy shade is the new black—and just as flattering.

This is the perfect time to break out of your black-suit comfort zone with gray, the freshest color of the season. "It's superchic," says Glassman. "And with so many options, from pale gray to slate to pewter, it's easy to find the right shade for you."

Stephanie Dorr, 25, Caterer

Body Type: Pear Shape
Bigger on the bottom, smaller on top, is Dorr's figure concern.

The Solution: Wide-set straps and jewel detail draw attention away from the lower body.

Carol Wior Swimsuit, $120; CelebrityOnAir.com; Shoes, $60; WantedShoes.com


4 more ultramodern gray swimsuits

Next: The 5 biggest swimsuit myths—busted!